If you could go back and live one day of your life, no making changes to the day, just relive it, what day would you choose?
I heard this question on a podcast I was listening to and it left me pondering, and pondering and…pondering. I had a hard time choosing just one day. Being the rebel that I am, I decided to make it a bit more expansive.
I chose a day that my mother and I went to Sandy Shores at Lake Kampeska. It was hot, sunny, a slight breeze kind of day. Playing in the water and making sand castles while Mom sat and read her book. Eventually we packed up all the beach items, shaking off the towels and such and headed to the City Park stand to have a treat. She would get the ice cream sandwich and I would get the ice cream bar. My body warm from the sun, not sunburned but close, sand in my air and on my skin, windows rolled down and enjoying our time together.
My second choice was when I was finally old enough to go on the route with my Dad. He was a candy and a potato chip salesman and would deliver/sell to small communities around the Watertown area. The day would start out early, 7:00am as the truck was loaded for the days route. On the first delivery I was eating potato chips and drinking pop. What an adventure! At each business, from gas station, bar, or small town grocery store, Dad, would write down the items that were needed, we’d hustle to the truck, fill up the basket, return to the building and unload, display and interact with the people. Many times telling jokes and the whole time working to get to the next business. By the end of the day I’d taken a nap, eaten a hamburger, French fries, pop, candy and helped my Dad.
Then, I thought of my children and what day would I want to relive with each of them. There are so many that it truly is difficult to choose. From their childhood to adulthood there are so many. One in particular that comes to mind and makes me tear up. The day my daughter came to visit and I met her at the airport, she came walking towards me with her unique style of dress, colorful and individualized and opened her arms and hugged me. It was a hug that was so filled with love, caring, kindness, peace, and light I was taken aback. She had learned from her yoga teacher class so much about herself and she connected to her inner light like she had never done before. It warmed me in so many ways and I look forward to receiving her hugs!
As Thanksgiving day approaches and there is a mixture of emotion that surrounds this day, especially after the election, what kind of interactions would you like to enjoy? What kind of day would you like to create and experience? Did you realize you have a choice? What can you learn about yourself? What if you observe rather than get triggered? What if you guide the day rather than be at the mercy of whatever happens?
I encourage you to start out your day getting centered and grounded. Whether you are sitting or laying down, connect into your breath. Close your eyes and breathe. Building up to filling your lungs deeper and deeper with each breath in and exhaling as much as you can. Asking the earth to connect her grounding energy to your feet and legs, sensing the vibration of nature connecting with you. Put your hand on your heart, remind your body, I am centered, safe, and at peace. Shine your light! There is so much to be grateful for! Look for the magic, look for the miracles, look for the signs – they are all there! Be open! You may just find yourself smiling!
